Onious is a distinguished agricultural scientist and project leader with over two decades of experience advancing sustainable agriculture, livestock production, and rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe. Dr. Mtetwa has deep technical expertise, a collaborative approach, and a passion for innovation to drive impactful and resilient agricultural programs nationwide.

Onious is currently pursuing a PhD in Animal Science (Goat Foraging and Range Management) at the University of South Africa (UNISA). He holds a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Animal Science from the University of Zimbabwe, as well as a National Diploma in Agriculture and a Diploma in Personnel Management. Fluent in English, Shona, and conversant in Ndebele/Zulu, Onious communicates effectively across diverse stakeholder groups.

With a strong grounding in both the public and private sectors, Onious has held leadership roles such as Managing Director of Woodlands Farm in Kwekwe, where he oversees strategy, stakeholder relations, budgeting, and operational excellence. As Team Leader and Private Sector Engagement Specialist for the Sustainable Agriculture Technology (SAT) ZAGP BEST Project, he was instrumental in forging transformative partnerships between smallholder farmers, private sector companies, and government institutions, facilitating the establishment of irrigated fodder schemes and developing innovative market linkages for livestock producers.

Onious’s previous roles include Project Manager for Save the Children Zimbabwe’s USAID/OFDA Livelihoods Project, where he led the implementation of food security and nutrition initiatives, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and supervised multidisciplinary teams. As a Livestock Technical Specialist with Catholic Relief Services, he designed farmer training programs and market access strategies, and led livestock and fodder interventions in response to climate shocks.

Earlier in his career, Onious contributed to World Vision Zimbabwe’s resilience and livelihoods building programs, coordinated livestock disaster response and rangeland rehabilitation for smallholder farmers, and served as a Livestock Production Lecturer, training the next generation of agricultural professionals.

Onious’s expertise includes project design and management, livestock production systems, climate-smart agriculture, private sector engagement, rural development, and capacity building. He has overseen the construction of critical agricultural infrastructure, such as dip tanks, sales pens, irrigation systems, and nutrition gardens—promoting sustainable resource management and improved livelihoods in vulnerable communities.

At Project Yananai Zimbabwe, Onious leads the agriculture portfolio, championing inclusive, market-driven, and climate-resilient solutions. His commitment to technical excellence, strategic partnerships, and farmer empowerment ensures that Yananai’s agricultural programs deliver sustainable food security, income growth, and resilience for smallholder farmers and rural communities across Zimbabwe.